The government will increase the fuel discount for public utility jeepney and UV Express drivers to P12 per liter starting Aug. 15 as part of measures to provide additional support to the transport sector amid rising economic pressures linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said the enhanced subsidy was approved during a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday in Malacañang, raising the current discount from P10 per liter.
The higher fuel assistance is expected to give eligible drivers up to P1,800 in weekly fuel savings, according to Recto.
The fuel discount program, which began in April, has so far benefited more than 93,000 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.
The Cabinet meeting also discussed measures to shield the economy from external shocks, stabilize prices, and continue assistance for sectors affected by global developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East.
Recto said the government must ensure that affected sectors continue receiving support as Filipinos feel the impact of international uncertainties.
“Gaya ng inaasahan, patuloy na nararamdaman ng ating mga kababayan ang epekto ng kaguluhan sa Gitnang Silangan. Dapat tuloy ang trabaho, tuloy ang ayuda, at ramdam ng bawat sektor ang presensya at malasakit ng gobyerno,” Recto said.
Aside from fuel assistance, Recto directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to fast-track the rollout of the UPLIFT assistance program for vulnerable groups, including farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, construction workers, and other low-income earners.
The move follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand government assistance for sectors affected by global economic challenges.
The administration earlier said it would continue implementing measures aimed at protecting workers and consumers from the effects of rising prices and external economic disruptions.
Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net
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